Wearable interactive digital amusement device

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides an interactive electronic, digital device ( 16 ), largely an amusement device, including a display ( 20 ) of animated characters with sound effects housed in a unit ( 19 ) to be worn or carried by a wearer or user. The characters and sound effects are interactive with the wearer or user, for example, in response to wearer or user movement or selective actuation (e.g., through a button or touch panel). The interactivity could also be responsive to ambient sounds (e.g., music or voice) or movement.

This application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. designpatent application Ser. No. 29/088,590, filed May 28, 1998, and claimsthe priority of that application and U.S. provisional application Ser.No. 60/097,871, filed Aug. 26, 1998.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to amusement devices and, moreparticularly, to an electronic, substantially digital, interactiveamusement device designed to be worn or carried by a user.

Amusement devices have, of course, long been known. From simple inertobjects designed to be handled by a person or passed among people, theyhave advanced to objects having manipulable mechanical features and,more recently, to objects having electronic features or a combination ofmechanical and electronic features. Dolls or figurines provide one goodexample of this evolution, changing from passive representations ofinfants to currently available dolls which might include not onlypositionable limbs and changeable facial expressions, but also soundproducing electronic systems.

Currently available amusement devices may incorporate digital technologysimilar to that used in other digital devices such as calculators. Forexample, an interactive wristwatch calculator such as that disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 4,158,285 (Heinsen et al.) uses electronic, microprocessorbased technology, as does the hand-held video game image-projecting andcontrol apparatus disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,976,429 (Nagel), whereina user holds a housing with arms carrying control elements forinteractive control of a video game.

One recent development in electronic amusement devices is “virtual toys”such as the “Tamagotchi” toy made by the Bandai Company Ltd. Othermanufacturers of such toys include Casio, Sega and Nintendo. By way ofexample, “Tamagotchi” is a small electronic device usually hung on anecklace or key ring. It includes a housing and a display of an animatedchick. The user has to “take care” of the chick by inputting signals orresponding to the display, or the display will disappear. A similar toyis the “GigaPound Pet” by Tiger Electronics. This toy provides digitallyproduced animated characters (dogs) and, while the toy is similar toothers of the genre, it produces and responds to sounds. In use, wheninitiated, the user sets a clock, then chooses a character. Buttoninputs are used to scroll and choose. A choice results in a display andsound, and other choices, input opportunities and results follow.

While these amusement devices represent advances, there is room forimprovement. In particular, there is a need for an amusement devicewhich increases the appeal and interactivity of such devices by, forexample, appearing to spontaneously produce sounds or visual effectswith or without intentional input from the user or observer whichprovoke or require a response from a person observing the device.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, the present invention is an interactive electronicdevice, largely an amusement device and largely digital, including adisplay of animated characters with sound effects housed in a unit to beworn or carried by a wearer or user. The characters and sound effectsare interactive with the wearer or user, for example, in response towearer or user movement or selective actuation (e.g., though a button ortouch panel). The interactivity could also be generated by or beresponsive to ambient conditions such as sounds (e.g., music or voice),nearby movement, temperature, light level or other conditions orsituations.

In one embodiment, the invention may take the form of a wristwatch likedevice and, in other embodiments, the device may take the form of apendant, locket, writing instrument or other object.

In one embodiment, the amusement device comprises an interactive system,in turn comprising an electronic system for use with a video monitor ordisplay and an audio component to drive, actuate and control the displayand audio components for displaying images and broadcasting sound,wherein a user of the system may interact with the system, and asoftware controller for carrying out the display on the monitor and thebroadcast of sound in accordance with a software program stored in thesoftware controller and in accordance with certain selected input datasupplied by the user and certain additional input data stored in anothersystem memory, wherein said certain additional input data is accessed bythe software controller in response to an ambient condition.

The interactive device of the present invention provides and encompassesa method for controlling operation of the device comprising providing avisual output on a display, providing an audio output on an audio outputdevice, receiving input from an input device, and controlling thedisplay and the audio output device based on received input. The inputdevice may receive input by being manipulated physically and/orintentionally, or it may receive input comprising an ambient conditionand, in response to the input, the method comprises a first modeproviding the visual output and a second mode providing the audiooutput.

An advantage of the amusement device of the present invention is that itincreases the appeal and interactivity of such devices by, for example,appearing to spontaneously produce sounds or visual effects with orwithout intentional input from the user or observer which provoke orrequire a response from a person observing the device, as well asproviding functions such as time/date information.

In some embodiments, the present invention may include a housing takinga form similar to a commonplace object such as a wristwatch, pendent,fob or a writing instrument.

Other features and advantages of the amusement device and method of thepresent invention will become more fully apparent and understood withreference to the following description and drawings, and the appendedclaims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts one embodiment of the amusement device of the presentinvention.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 2—2 of FIG. 1

FIG. 3 is a plan view of the invention with portions removed forclarity.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 4—4 of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a plan view of another embodiment of the invention withportions removed for clarity.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6—6 of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is an exploded assembly view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 8a-c depicts one operation of the present invention.

FIGS. 9a-c depicts the operation depicted in FIGS. 8a-c, with the faceof the device removed for clarity.

FIG. 10 is an exploded assembly view of one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 depicts another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 11, with portionsremoved for clarity.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 11.

FIG. 14 is an exploded assembly view of the embodiment of FIG. 11.

FIG. 15 is an exploded assembly view of another embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 16 is an exploded assembly view of another embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 17 is an exploded assembly view of another embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 18 depicts one embodiment of a representative, exemplary electroniccontrol system, comprising a microprocessor or computer controller, foruse in embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 19 depicts another embodiment of a representative, exemplaryelectronic control system, comprising a microprocessor or computercontroller, for use in embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a flow diagram illustrating operation of one embodiment of aninteractive, substantially digital amusement device in accordance withthe present invention.

FIG. 21 is a flow diagram illustrating operation of another embodimentof an interactive digital amusement device.

FIG. 22 is a flow diagram illustrating operation of another embodimentof an interactive digital amusement device.

FIG. 23 is a flow diagram illustrating operation of another embodimentof an interactive digital amusement device.

DESCRIPTION

The accompanying Figures depict embodiments of the amusement device andmethod of the present invention, and features, components and theoperation thereof. With regard to means for fastening, mounting,attaching or connecting the components of the present invention to formthe device as a whole, unless specifically described otherwise, suchmeans are intended to encompass conventional fasteners such as machinescrews, machine threads, seals, snap rings, clamps, rivets, nuts andbolts, toggles, pins and the like. Components may also be connectedadhesively, by snap or friction fitting, or by welding or deformation,if appropriate. The electronic portions of the device may useconventional, commercially available electronic components, connectorsand devices such as suitable wiring, connectors, printed circuit boards,microchips, speakers, lights, liquid crystal displays, audio components,inputs, outputs and the like. Unless specifically otherwise disclosed ortaught, materials for making components of the present invention may beselected from appropriate materials such as metal, metallic alloys,natural or synthetic materials, plastics and the like, and appropriatemanufacturing, assembly or production methods including casting,extruding, molding and machining and the like may be used.

Any references to front and back, right and left, top and bottom, upperand lower, and horizontal and vertical are intended for convenience ofdescription, not to limit the present invention or its components to anyone positional or spacial orientation.

FIG. 1 depicts one embodiment of the present invention, an electronicamusement device 14 taking a form similar to a wristwatch. The device 14includes a body 16 releaseably mounted on or coupled to a band, orbands, 17 of flexible material for encircling a wearer's wrist.

The body 16 (which may be formed from a suitable plastic or plasticmixture such as a polycarbonate-ABS blend) has a presentation displayface 19, which may carry a decal type screen or film for shaping orcoloring a displayed image, includes a visual display area 20 which iscapable of displaying changeable display images. The display images mayinclude a variety of virtual characters, patterns and/or otherinformation. FIG. 1 shows a presentation face 19 with a single displayarea 20, but more than one display area or display screen, or a splitdisplay, may be used as well. The display 20 is advantageously a liquidcrystal display having a selected format and size such as 32×32, 64×64,80×80, 100×64, etc., and it may have color capability and integratedbacklights for added viewing ease and clarity. Such displays are used inrecent electronic display devices and computers, and are commerciallyavailable in a variety of types and sizes from several manufacturers.The exact nature and size of the display area 20 can vary andalternative types of displays and future display technologies willlikely serve the intended purposes of allowing a user or wearer of thepresent invention to participate in interactive video displays.

Generally at or adjacent to the peripheral edge of the presentation face19, the device 14 includes inputs or control keys, switches or buttons21, 22. On the peripheral side edge of the face 19, the device carries amode button 23 and an immediately adjacent select button 24. Any ofthese buttons may be assigned a desired function or functions, and morethan one function may be accomplished by a single button, for example,mode and select functions may be combined in a single button. Any ofthese controls or input button may be selected from a wide variety ofcommercially available buttons or keys, such as touch keys, used toprovide electrical control signals, and one or more of the selected formof input key may be assigned to additional functions, such as inchangeable soft key assignments during the programming or setup of thesystem. One form of suitable button, and the fitting thereof to thedevice 14, is depicted in FIG. 2. One material suitable for the buttonis a rubber material, such as santoprene. The selected button materialmay be formed with a lip 25 which may be preferably adhesively securedto the face 19 around an opening therein. The button material overlies asuitable contact, for example a graphite contact 26.

The device includes a speaker housing or grill 28 on its peripheraledge, opposite the mode and select buttons. The speaker grill isprovided with openings or vents 29 suitable for emitting sound, and itssides may be provided with bumps 30 or texture to facilitatemanipulating the device 19 as explained below (with reference to FIGS.8a-c and 9 a-c). The vents may be covered with a thin film of Mylar orother suitable material sealed in place to maintain the watertightnessof the device 14.

FIG. 7 is an exploded assembly view of one embodiment of the device 14,and depicts that the device includes the top presentation face 19, agenerally or substantially clear and scratch resistant lens 32(polycarbonate is a suitable for forming the lens), a liquid crystaldisplay 33 generally under the lens, and integrated circuit board (thecontroller, see below) 34, a suitable speaker 35, such as a 28 mmspeaker, an appropriate number of batteries 36 for providing a powersource, a face bottom 37, a base 38, a battery cover 39 which may besealed by a suitable O-ring type seal or gasket and is connected to theface bottom by suitable screws. This generally sandwich-like assembly isjoined or coupled by the joining the face top 19 and face bottom 37,then snap fitting the face assembly, i.e., the top and bottom containingthe lens, etc., to the base 38. The “arrowhead” snap fitting 40 of theface bottom 37 enables the firm, yet rotational or spinning movement ofthe face assembly within or on the base 38. Between the face assemblyand the base 38, generally along or adjacent to the peripheral edgesthereof, the device 14 may be provided with a plurality of snap bumps 41and complimentary snap recesses 42 in a detent like arrangement. FIGS. 3and 4 depict the basic layout and placement of the components whenassembled. Similarly, FIGS. 5 and 6 depict another basic layout whereinthe three button batteries have been replaced by a single battery cell,for example a lithium cell.

In one embodiment, the function of the buttons or inputs may be outlinedas follows. The mode button 23 toggles through available programs andfeatures, and the select button 24 selects items. Input button 22 is a“hot” key, comprising the start and stop button, the input forcontrolling a main game, the input for triggering a character to tellthe time and for resetting the device. Input button 21 is also a hot keyor input, and controls the playing of another game, clearing the deviceand resetting. These functions are exemplary, and additional functionsmay be provided and/or assigned or reassigned to the inputs or selectedcombinations thereof, and additional input buttons may be provided asdesired. The enumerated functions will be further explained andunderstood in conjunction with FIGS. 20-23 which depict operationalflows of representative embodiments of the present invention.

The movement of the face assembly is depicted in FIGS. 8a-c and 9 a-c.These two sets of Figures are substantially similar, but in FIGS. 9a-c,the face has been removed for clarity. The 360 degree spinning orrotational movement of the face assembly may be controlledincrementally, for example in 15 degree increments, by the snap bumpsand recesses. The face assembly can be moved in either direction foruser or wearer convenience, comfort and/or amusement.

FIG. 10 depicts an exploded assembly of one embodiment of the invention.Features in common or similar to features depicted in FIGS. 1-9a-c arecommonly referenced. The depicted assembly includes an input assemblyincluding buttons 21, 22, suitable pushers 43, O-ring type seals 44 andsprings 45. A lens 32 is received in the body 16. Suitable buckles 46and pins 47 are used to couple the device 14 to the band 17. A reset key48 is located on the body 16 and sealed by an appropriate seal, forexample, an O-ring type seal. Additional input/control buttons 23, 24are also located at the side of the body 16. An LCD 33 is received inthe device 14, and operably supported therein by a LCD frame member 50and connectors 51. A back cover 37 is provided. A microprocessor printedcircuit board 34 is operably mounted, as is a battery assembly 36. Anoperating mechanism, such as spring/contact assembly 55, including anappropriate number of springs 55′ and a spring guiding clip 49, isprovided for making or completing a solder-less speaker electricalconnection between the speaker 35 and the printed circuit board 34. Theclip is coupled to the printed circuit board, and includes a movablegenerally center portion so a user can conveniently replace the battery36 without detaching the clip 49 from the board 34. The speaker 35 isset and mounted within the back cover 38, which is sealed by a suitablefixed ring 56. Suitable screws, threads or other connective structuresor methods are provided as necessary to join components and the assemblyas a whole.

Another embodiment of the present invention is depicted in FIGS. 11-14.Features in common or similar to features depicted in FIGS. 1-9a-c arecommonly referenced, and the embodiment of FIGS. 11-14 is generallysimilar. It includes a body 16 mounted on a band 17, and a presentationface 19, with a display 20. Input buttons 21, 22 are provided asnecessary to accomplish desired functions, as is an enter button 23. Thebutton structures or assemblies may be substantially similar to thosedescribed above. In this embodiment, the body 16 incorporates soundoutlet openings 56. FIG. 14 is an exploded assembly view of thisembodiment, which comprises a top presentation face 19, a main bodymember 57, a generally or substantially clear and scratch resistant lens32, a liquid crystal display screen 33 generally under the lens, andintegrated circuit board 34 (the controller, see below), a suitablespeaker 35, an appropriate number of batteries 36 for providing a powersource, a bottom 37, and a battery cover 39. These components may bejoined by suitable connectors, such as screws or threads. It should beappreciated that this embodiment provides a fixed presentation face 19.FIGS. 13 and 14 depict one layout or arrangement of the components whenassembled.

FIG. 15 is an exploded assembly depicting an embodiment substantiallysimilar to the embodiments depicted and described with reference toFIGS. 11-14, and generally similar to the embodiment depicted in FIGS.1-9a-c. Generally common or similar features are commonly referenced.The depicted assembly includes inputs or controls 21, 22, 23 which maybe similar to those described above. A lens 32 is received in the body16, which is closed at the presentation face by a ring 61 and face plate62. Suitable buckles 46 and pins 47 are used to couple the device 14 tothe band 17. A reset key 48 is located on the body 16. A liquid crystaldisplay (“LCD”) 33 is received in the device 14, and operably supportedtherein by a LCD frame member 50 and connectors 51. A microprocessorprinted circuit board 34 is operably mounted, as is a battery 36. Anoperating mechanism, such as spring/contact assembly 55, including anappropriate number of springs 55′ and a spring guiding clip 49, isprovided for making or completing a solder-less speaker electricalconnection between the speaker 35 and the printed circuit board 34. Thespeaker 35 is set and mounted within the back cover 38, which is sealedby a suitable fixed ring 56. Suitable screws, threads or otherconnective structures or methods are provided as necessary to joincomponents and the assembly as a whole.

FIG. 16 is an exploded assembly view depicting another embodiment of thepresent invention wherein the invention takes the form of a pendent orbroach. This embodiment comprises a front case member 63 and a rear casemember 64 joined to form a generally closed housing. The housingincludes an opening which is occupied by a lens 32, and another openingoccupied by a touch pad input 65. It houses a LCD 66, supported by anLCD frame 67. A first printed circuit board controller 69 is received inthe housing. Suitable contacts 71 are provided to link operablecomponents, and a battery or battery assembly 72 is provided for powerand enclosed by a battery cover 73. Function or input buttons, such asbutton 74, are provided, as are openings suitable for receiving thebuttons. A second printed circuit board 76 is mounted. A suitable audiospeaker 35 is provided. The assembled device may be suspended by asuitable flexible lanyard or necklace member 77. In this embodiment, asin all embodiments, it should be appreciated that any number of inputsand or circuit boards may be incorporated as necessary or desired toaccomplish desired functions or performance.

FIG. 17 is an exploded assembly depicting another embodiment of thepresent invention wherein it takes the form of a pen or other writinginstrument. This embodiment comprises a first pen case member 79 withopenings for operably receiving suitable control inputs or inputassemblies such as buttons 80. An ink assembly 81 is provided andincludes a pen tip, ball and ink assembly. A second pen case member 83is provided for attachment to the first case member 79 to form ahousing. A battery or battery assembly 36 is received in the housing andcovered by a battery cover 84. A lens 32, similar to those describedabove is received in the housing, occupying a display opening therein,as is an LCD or other suitable display, and a support frame, indicatedgenerally at 86. Two programed and/or programmable circuit boards 87, 87a are mounted in the housing, as is a speaker 35. Board 87 a operablyhandles input and/or output relative to a gravity switch assembly 87 bwhich may be provided for actuating an unprompted reaction, e.g., asound or animation, based on the orientation or position of the device14. The operable components, for example, the inputs, circuit boards,LCD, speaker and battery, are electrically coupled by suitable inputs,contacts and connectors.

The embodiments of the amusement device of the present invention includea suitable data and control operating or processing system or systems,typically in the form of a computer or one or more microprocessor boardsor chips (for example, integrated circuits 34 or printed circuit boards87) contained within the housing or case of the various embodiments ofthe device. These printed circuit boards or chips may be configured asdesired and convenient for particular embodiments and functions, and maybe constructed and located as suitable for particular embodiments.

FIG. 18 depicts one representative selection and arrangement of theelectronics or electronic circuitry and related components which may beused in embodiments of the invention. A plurality of selected inputs 58(e.g., buttons, gravity sensor/switch, keyboard or joystick, temperaturesensor and/or microphones) are operably connected to a microprocessor59, as are a plurality of selected outputs, in this embodiment, an LCDscreen 32 and speaker 35. A reset key or button 48 (or keys or buttons)may also be coupled to the microprocessor 59. In this embodiment, themicroprocessor contains the LCD screen driver and the digital audio allin or on one chip. Future performance needs and features (e.g., LCDcontroller(s), audio enhancements, RAM, etc.) may involve the use ofmulti-chip sets. For example, and the number and arrangement of chips orpc boards is not limited to this example, the audio may reside on onechip and the LCD screen may be driven by, for example, three other chipswith a fourth chip being the controller for issuing commands to theother three chips.

FIG. 19 depicts another representative selection and arrangement of theelectronics or electronic circuitry and related components which may beused in embodiments of the invention. The depicted control and dataprocessing system 90 includes a suitable power supply 181, typically abattery or a direct current supply of a suitable voltage (e.g., thebattery or battery assemblies 36), but other power supplies, such assolar cells, may be used or incorporated as well. Power is supplied to apower distribution and sensor electronics control circuit 184. Controlcircuit 184 can be one of several commercially available power switchingand control circuits, and may be provided in the form of a circuit orcircuit board which is detachable, and plugs into a main board or chip185 or a suitable expansion slot board receptacle.

Power control circuit 184 may be connected to a first input controlswitch 182 and a second input control switch 183, or to as many switchesas are desired or necessary. The switches may be operated by inputs suchas inputs 21, 22 23, 24, provided on the housings of the variousembodiments of the present invention. In one embodiment, for example,one switch may control powering up the system, and the second switch maycontrol activation of aspects of the programs or modes of operation.There may be one or more additional switches, buttons or inputs, orfunctions may be combined in a button by the selective operationthereof, and the system 90 can include default settings or subroutines.

FIG. 19 also depicts a controller board, circuit or chip 185 whichincludes a central microprocessor (not shown) and related componentswell-known in the industry as computers or printed circuit boards, forexample, four or eight bit microprocessors such as those made andoffered for sale by Elan Microelectronics Corporation and others, andrelated memory (not specifically shown). A variety of differentconfigurations and types of memory devices can be connected to asuitable pc or board as is well-known in the art. A panel displaycontrol board 188, and/or an optional second such board 189 (shown inphantom), is included. The board 188 typically would be connected oroperably coupled to the board 185, for example in expansion slots ofcircuit board 185. Display control board 188 is capable of controllingthe images displayed and other operational parameters of the videoand/or audio displays used in the present invention More specifically,the display control board 188 is connected to one or more user interfacecircuits 196, which show the display station. Additionally, the displaycontrol board 188 is shown connected to the additional display interfacecircuits 190, 194, 198. This arrangement allows the display controlboard or circuits 188 to provide necessary image display data tosuitable electronic driver circuit 197 used to drive the display stationor stations (this flow may operate the opposite way, too, i.e., thedisplay control board 188 may receive information or data from thedriver circuits). This arrangement also allows the display controlboards to provide necessary image display data to additional displayelectronic drive circuits 192, 195, 199 associated with the displays.The display electronic drive circuits just described may have associatedback lights (or other suitable enhancements) 193.

The circuit board 185 may include a serial port 187 to allow data to beprogrammed or downloaded. This allows performance data to be analyzed invarious ways using added detail, or by providing integration with datafrom other devices so that performance problems can be identified andeliminated. It also allows monitoring of use and accuracy on a routinebasis. In some embodiments, performance requirements, user use,responses, performance and/or skill can be varied or manipulated,recorded and displayed, or downloaded.

FIG. 19 further depicts that a keyboard connection port 186 may beprovided to couple the pc or microprocessor of the present invention toa larger format microprocessor or computer and keyboard (not shown) tofacilitate use, programming and servicing of the system 90. It alsoshows a number of optional sensor interface connections 191 or controlinput interfaces 178, 179 for sensing of ambient conditions or directinput through the use of inputs (such as buttons 21, 22, 23, 24) or thelike.

The processor or controller 90, whatever form it takes, includessoftware or programming which is used in the operation of theinteractive use of the present invention. It should be understood thatthe particular software used may vary dependent upon, for example, thedesired input and output options and/or interactivity, e.g., thecharacter or characters displayed and the activities of the displayedcharacter(s). The system for some embodiments described herein is beingused for a “happy face” character, and so description in that contextmay be provided as exemplary. However, other characters and activitiescan be selected and there may be modifications to the software andprogram routines to accomplish these changes, or such may be required inconnection with the wide variety of functions, characters, displays andsounds available.

The processor 90 includes suitable operational modules for performing anumber of data processing function in connection with the selected andpreferred characters. One function is receiving user input andtranslating it into a selected action of the display. Otherrepresentative functions include, but are not limited to, producingand/or controlling an audio output, both or selectively in response to asensed ambient condition or stimulus or in response to user input,producing and/or displaying audio and/ or visual inquiries of the userand sensing functions. Such functions and others, including variationsthereof, for various embodiments of an interactive digital amusementdevice in accordance with the present invention are indicated, describedand illustrated herein, particularly in the exemplary operational flowsdepicted in FIGS. 20-23.

Turning then to FIGS. 20-23, these flow diagrams illustrate functionsthat may be implemented in software or firmware for execution inembodiments of the present invention by a suitable processor or controlcircuit 90. Upon execution of the functions, processor 90 responds toinput by a user to control, for example, a visual output on a displayand/or an audio output through an audio output device such as a speaker35, and provide interaction with the user. The device, including aprocessor circuit 90 and associated electronics, may be embodied withina watch or a pendant, or other types of enclosures.

FIG. 20 is a flow diagram 200 illustration operation of anotherembodiment of an interactive digital amusement device 217. Device 217includes a display 218, typically implemented with an LCD screen. Theuser may interact with device 217 by manipulating an input device, suchas buttons 201, 202 and 203. In particular, a user selects one or moreof the buttons by depressing them to activate a switch. Other types ofinput devices may be used, such as touch-sensitive elements, voiceactivation, infra-red, as well as downloadable devices for devices withchangeable programming.

As shown in flow diagram 200, a user may turn device 217 on or off byselecting and holding buttons 201 and 202, and button 203,simultaneously for five seconds, for example (step 204). Device 217 mayalternatively include a separate on/off switch or button. Upon turningon device 217, it enters an idle mode 214. A user may manipulate buttons201 and 202 (and/or other inputs, as necessary or desired) while device217 is in idle mode 214 in order to operate device 217 in differentmodes. Upon selecting button 201, for example, device 217 may enter atime display mode 205 in which a time is displayed on display 218. Uponselecting button 201, for example, while in time display mode 205,device 217 may enter a date display mode 206 in which a date isdisplayed on display 218, which may include a month and day as shown, aswell as other types of date or day information. While in time mode 205or date display mode 206, the user may set a displayed time and date bysimultaneously selecting buttons 201, 202 in order to activate a settime/date mode 215. As shown in mode 215, a user may set the time anddate by selecting one of the buttons to increment a current digit andselect in order to move the display to the next digit in order to setthat digit and to save the settings after selection of a last digit. Acurrent digit may be indicated by blinking the digit.

While in the idle mode 214, or other mode, a user may select a button inorder to activate a play mode 207 and view an animation on display 218.While in play mode 207, a user may select a button in order to play thenext animation (step 209). While in play mode 207, an animation isdisplayed on display 218, and selection of one of the input buttons, forexample, button 202 repeatedly causes a series of animations to bedisplayed on display 218 in step 209. The animations may be displayed ina particular order upon repeated selection of a button or in aself-prompting random order without further input or prompting from theuser. The animations may include a graphical display, and they may beaccompanied by an audio output, such as music or speech.

While in any mode 207, a user may select or press a button, button 201,for example, in order to activate the idle sound and/or display settingmode 214. In idle mode 214, a user may select a button, for examplebutton 202, in order to activate or deactivate the audio output. Inparticular, selection of an appropriate button may change the soundsetting between on and off, as may be indicated on display 218, andselection of another button may save the current setting. While in anyof its modes, e.g., modes 205, 213, 219, if no button is selected withinfive seconds, for example, device 217 returns to idle mode 214 and/or astandard, default, ready or “screensaver” display. Alternatively, thedevice 217 may be configured to remain in a selected mode and onlyreturn to idle mode 214 upon selection of a particular button orcombination of the buttons.

While in idle mode 214, the user may select one or more of the buttoninputs in order to activate a stop watch function, animation or message213. For example, selection of button 202 may cause activation of thestop watch function 213, which may be implemented as a series of storedprerecorded audio counting or countdown messages or an incrementing,digital or analog stop watch display. In addition, selection of button203 may cause activation of an alarm function 219, which may beimplemented as a series of prerecorded messages providing advice-typemessages, and which may selected or triggered based upon detection of aninputted setting or condition. The alarm functions 219 may be triggeredby an ambient condition, such as light or dark, or they may randomlyselected. Detection of the ambient condition may occur through use ofinterfaces 178 and 179, or other appropriate sensors or sensing devicessuch as thermometers, microphones, motion detectors and the like.Processor 90 may process the detected ambient condition or a selectedsetting, under software or firmware control, in order to select aparticular audio message and/or display. For example, a value of thedetected ambient condition may be compared with known values orthresholds associated with particular messages. When the value matches aknown value or is within a particular threshold, the messagecorresponding to that value or threshold may be selected or may betriggered automatically.

FIG. 21 is a flow diagram 300 illustration operation of anotherembodiment of an interactive digital amusement device 317. Device 317includes a display 318, typically implemented with an LCD screen. Theuser may interact with device 317 by manipulating an input device,implemented with buttons 301, 302, and 303. In particular, a userselects one or more of the buttons by depressing them to activate aswitch. Other types of input devices may be used, such astouch-sensitive elements or voice activation.

As shown in flow diagram 300, a user may turn device 317 on or off byselecting and holding all three buttons 301, 302, and 303 simultaneouslyfor five seconds, for example (step 316). Device 317 may alternativelyinclude a separate on/off switch or button. Upon turning on device 317,it enters an idle mode 304. A user may manipulate buttons 301, 302, and303 while device 317 is in idle mode 304 in order to operate device 317in different modes. Upon selecting button 301, device 317 enters a timedisplay mode 305 in which a time is displayed on display 318. Uponselecting button 301 while in time display mode 305, device 317 enters adate display mode 306 in which a date is displayed on display 318, whichmay include a month and day as shown or other types of date information.While in time mode 305 or date display mode 306, the user may set adisplayed time and date by simultaneously selecting buttons 302 and 303in order to activate a set time/date mode 315 (step 310). As shown inmode 315, a user may set the time and date by selecting button 301 toincrement a current digit and select button 302 in order to move thedisplay to the next digit in order to set that digit and to save thesettings after selection of a last digit. A current digit may beindicated by blinking the digit.

While in date display mode 306, a user may select button 301 in order toactivate a play mode 307 and view an animation on display 318. While inplay mode 307, a user may select button 302 in order to play the nextanimation (step 309). While in play mode 307, an animation is displayedon display 318, and selection of button 302 repeatedly causes the seriesof animations to be displayed on display 318 in step 309. The animationsmay be displayed in a particular order upon repeated selection of button302 or in a random order. The animations may include a graphical displaypossibly accompanied by an audio output, such as music or speech.

While in play mode 307, a user may select button 301 in order toactivate an idle sound setting mode 308. In mode 308, a user may selectbutton 302 in order to activate or deactivate the audio output. Inparticular, selection of button 301 changes the sound setting between onand off as indicated on display 318 (step 311), and selection of button302 saves the current setting (step 312). While in modes 305-308, if nobutton 301-303 was selected within five seconds, for example, device 317returns to idle mode 304. Alternatively, device 317 may be configured toremain in a selected mode and only return to idle mode 304 uponselection of a particular button 301-303 or combination of the buttons.

While in idle mode 304, the user may select buttons 302 and 303 in orderto activate an audio message. For example, selection of button 302causes activation of an audio message, referred to as a “magic 8-balltype response” (step 313), which may be implemented as a series ofstored prerecorded audio messages selected based upon detection of anambient condition, or randomly selected, and providing yes/no or othertypes of messages. In addition, selection of button 303 causesactivation of other audio messages, referred to as “fortune” (step 314),which may be implemented as a series of prerecorded messages providingfortune-type or prediction-type messages and selected based upondetection of an ambient condition or randomly selected. Detection of theambient condition may occur through use of interfaces 178 and 179, asidentified in this specification. Processor 90 may process the detectedambient condition, under software or firmware control, in order toselect a particular audio message. For example, a value of the detectedambient condition may be compared with known values or thresholdsassociated with particular messages. When the value matches a knownvalue or is within a particular threshold, the message corresponding tothat value or threshold may be selected.

FIG. 22 is a flow diagram 400 illustrating operation of anotherembodiment of an interactive digital amusement device 404. Device 404includes a display 405, typically implemented with an LCD display. Theuser may interact with device 404 by manipulating an input device,implemented with buttons 201, 202, and 203. In particular, a userselects one or more of the buttons by depressing them to activate aswitch. Other types of input devices may be used, such astouch-sensitive elements or voice activation.

A user may turn device 404 on and off by simultaneously selectingbuttons 401, 402, and 403 for five seconds, for example (step 415).Device 404 may alternatively include a separate on/off switch or button.Upon being turned on or first activated, device 404 enters an idle mode406. While in idle mode 406, the user may manipulate buttons 401 and 402in order to activate various modes. For example, selection of button 401activates a play mode 407 in which an animation is presented on display405. While in play mode 407, selection of button 402 causes additionalanimations to be displayed on display 405 (step 408). Therefore,repeated activation of button 402 while in play mode 407 causesactivation of a series of stored animations on display 405. Theanimations may be displayed in a particular order upon repeatedselection of button 402 or in a random order. The animations may includea graphical display possibly accompanied by an audio output, such asmusic or speech.

While in play mode 407, selection of button 401 causes activation of anidle sound setting mode 409 in which a user may activate or deactivatethe audio output. While in mode 409, selection of button 402 causesactivation of settings modes 410 and 411. In modes 410 and 411,selection of button 401 causes selection of a sound setting in order toturn on or off the sound as indicated on display 405, and selection ofbutton 402 saves the settings and returns to idle mode 406.

While in idle mode 406, selection of button 402 causes activation of adisplay time mode 412, in which a time is displayed on display 405.While in display time mode 412, selection of button 402 causesactivation of a display date mode 413 in which a date is displayed ondisplay 405, which may include a month and day as shown or other typesof date information. While in date display mode 413, selection of button402 returns to idle mode 406. While in display time mode 412 or displaydate mode 413, the user may set the time and date, as shown in mode 414,by selecting button 401 in order to adjust setting of a current digit,and select button 402 to accept the setting and move the display to thenext digit. A current digit may be indicated by blinking the digit.

Also, while in idle mode 406, selection of button 403 generates an audiomessage, referred to as “mood sensing,” with appropriate comments. Thismessage may be implemented with prerecorded audio messages selectedbased upon detection of an ambient condition or randomly selected. Theambient condition may be sensed using control input interfaces 178 and179 as identified in this specification. Processor 90 may process thedetected ambient condition, under software or firmware control, in orderto select a particular audio message. For example, a value of thedetected ambient condition may be compared with known values orthresholds associated with particular messages. When the value matches aknown value or is within a particular threshold, the messagecorresponding to that value or threshold may be selected.

As shown in FIG. 23, flow diagram 500, a user may turn device 517 on oroff by selecting and holding all three buttons 501, 502, and 503simultaneously for five seconds, for example (step 516). Device 517 mayalternatively include a separate on/off switch or button. Upon turningon device 517, it enters an idle mode 504. A user may manipulate buttons501, 502, and 503 while device 517 is in idle mode 504 in order tooperate device 517 in different modes. Upon selecting button 501, device517 enters a time display mode 505 in which a time is displayed ondisplay 518. Upon selecting button 501 while in time display mode 505,device 517 enters a date display mode 506 in which a date is displayedon display 518, which may include a month and day as shown or othertypes of date information. While in time mode 505 or date display mode506, the user may set a displayed time and date by simultaneouslyselecting buttons 502 and 503 in order to activate a set time/date mode515 (step 510). As shown in mode 515, a user may set the time and dateby selecting button 501 to increment a current digit and select button502 in order to move the display to the next digit in order to set thatdigit and to save the settings after selection of a last digit. Acurrent digit may be indicated by blinking the digit.

While in date display mode 506, a user may select button 501 in order toactivate a play mode 507 and view an animation on display 518. While inplay mode 507, a user may select button 502 in order to play the nextanimation (step 509). While in play mode 507, an animation is displayedon display 518, and selection of button 502 repeatedly causes the seriesof animations to be displayed on display 518 in step 509. The animationsmay be displayed in a particular order upon repeated selection of button502 or in a random order. The animations may include a graphical displaypossibly accompanied by an audio output, such as music or speech.

While in play mode 507, a user may select button 501 in order toactivate an idle sound setting mode 508. In mode 508, a user may selectbutton 502 in order to activate or deactivate the audio output. Inparticular, selection of button 501 changes the sound setting between onand off as indicated on display 518 (step 511), and selection of button502 saves the current setting (step 512). While in modes 505-508, if nobutton 501-503 was selected within five seconds, for example, device 517returns to idle mode 504. Alternatively, device 517 may be configured toremain in a selected mode and only return to idle mode 504 uponselection of a particular button 501-503 or combination of the buttons.

While in idle mode 504, the user may select buttons 502 and 503 in orderto activate an audio message. For example, selection of button 502causes activation of an audio message, referred to as a “thought” (step513), which may be implemented as a series of stored prerecorded audiomessages selected based upon detection of an ambient condition orrandomly selected. In addition, selection of button 503 causesactivation of other audio messages, referred to as “advice” (step 514),which may be implemented as a series of prerecorded messages providingadvice-type messages and selected based upon detection of an ambientcondition or randomly selected. Detection of the ambient condition mayoccur through use of interfaces 178 and 179, as identified in thisspecification. Processor 90 may process the detected ambient condition,under software or firmware control, in order to select a particularaudio or visual message. For example, a value of the detected ambientcondition may be compared with known values or thresholds associatedwith particular messages. When the value matches a known value or iswithin a particular threshold, the message corresponding to that valueor threshold may be selected.

The preceding examples of embodiments and operational flows are intendedto be representative of embodiments of the present invention. Theconfiguration of software or programs for the present invention may bevaried in accordance with desired functions. Default displays andmessages, e.g., screen-saver type displays or audio messages, may beincorporated, and triggered automatically or selectively. Theconfigurations of the housing and display, the number of inputs and/orthe available modes and/or programs of operation may be varied. Luminousor “glow-in-dark” features may be provided, and the various embodimentsmay include graphics or colors as desired. Thus, the present inventionmay be embodied in other specific forms without departing from theessential spirit or attributes thereof. It is desired that theembodiments described herein be considered in all respects asillustrative, not restrictive, and that reference be made to theappended claims for determining the scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A wearable interactive digital amusement devicecomprising: a visual display for displaying animated visual images; anaudio component for broadcasting sound; an audio input for receiving anindication of an ambient sound; a system memory for storing dataincluding a plurality of animated display images and a plurality ofpre-specified sounds; a processor for controlling the visual display andthe audio component, in response to the indication of the ambient sound,to display or broadcast data from the system memory; a band for securingaround a user's wrist; and a housing coupled to the band, the housingcontaining and securing the visual display, the audio component, theaudio input, the system memory, and the processor.
 2. The device ofclaim 1 wherein the housing is rotatably coupled to the band such thatthe user can rotate the housing with respect to the band.
 3. The deviceof claim 1 further including a second input device capable ofmanipulation by the user to effect the control system.
 4. The device ofclaim 1 wherein the audio input is a microphone.
 5. The device of claim4 wherein the audio input is adapted to activate the control system totransmit a selected one of the plurality of pre-specified sounds to theaudio component.
 6. The device of claim 5 wherein the selectedpre-specified sound is selected from the group including a moodindication, a thought indication, and an advice indication.
 7. Thedevice of claim 3 wherein manipulation of the second input deviceactivates the control system to send a first pre-specified sound to thesound component for broadcasting, the first sound based on the input tothe audio input.
 8. The device of claim 1 wherein the visual displayincludes a liquid crystal display.
 9. The device of claim 1 furthercomprising a manual input device having at least one button.
 10. Thedevice of claim 9 wherein the processor operates to provide a sequenceof visual animations on the visual display in response to manipulationof the manual input device.
 11. The device of claim 9 wherein theprocessor further operates to provide visual time and date informationon the visual display in response to manipulation of the manual inputdevice.
 12. The device of claim 11 wherein the processor operates topermit a user to set the time and date information in response tomanipulation of the manual input device.
 13. The device of claim 11wherein the processor further operates to permit a user to deactivatethe audio component in response to manipulation of the manual inputdevice.
 14. The device of claim 9 wherein the processor further operatesto turn off the visual display in response to manipulation of the manualinput device.